Lazer-like .223 fit and who used a Rat-tailed file on the .243 barrel lug?

[Land_Owner]

My new-to-me .223 bull barrel (1 in 12 twist) fits my new-to-me serial # "NL" receiver like they were factory fitted.  The new-to-me synthetic forearm needs some adjustment as it is tight.  FAQ's will be checked.  I have not shot this combination, but have very high hopes.

The new-to-me .243 barrel appears to have been "worked" with a rat-tailed file (I did not look at the .243 barrel lug when it was purchased or it would have been obvious), the blueing is gone, there are file marks remaining in the steel, and it's fit against the "NL" receiver joint pin exhibits Pitch, Yaw, and Roll.  I believe I could shoot it off-hand, similar to Angelina Jolie's character in "Wanted", and bend bullets around stationary objects.

If the .243 does not fit the "NC" receiver that I pick up tomorrow, the FAQ's and some solid shim stock/2-part epoxy research is in order.

[quickdtoo]

Lots of the factory cut pivots look fairly rough, so it may be normal, very few are highly polished or real smooth if that's what you were expecting. Great for good adhesion of epoxy or silver solder tho!!

Tim

[oldsoldja]

I have some H&R&J&B receivers

[cwlongshot]

 I always fit with a file. Especially when there is allot of material to remove. Then finish with a stone only for final surface prep. The one think you do not use is POWER TOOLS! (Unless your very experienced)  The dremel can remove material very fast!!

CW

[Land_Owner]

I just returned from Jacksonville...Fernandina Beach actually...and fitted the "NC" receiver to my .243 barrel.  The Jury is still out.

With only the barrel on the receiver, there is 'virtually' no play in the lock up - but there is a wee bit.  Not enough to measure with shims, but it is there nonetheless.  I am certain it is not side to side.  It is a tiny bit to the rear and maybe up and down.  Real hard to tell.  Can not see daylight between the barrel and receiver.

End play, if any, will exhibit itself during firing I am certain, where high pressure takes no prisoners and "anomalies" in lock up will raise their ugly head.

With the forearm on, there is no roll, pitch or yaw.  None.  Now, the proof in accuracy, and whether the wee bit of end play can be ignored, is test firing on the range.

Should I remain concerned?  What should I do at this point?

[gcrank1]

Use feeler gauges to measure it. Also check with a case in place.
Not a bad idea then to test fire it and get everything 'impact seated', then measure again.

[cwlongshot]

I agree, time to shoot it. If it loosens up a bit open it back up and see what's happened.

I have had a couple that seemed to fit well but just didn't sound good and solid upon closing. One time It was a bit of a proud weld on the barrel lug. Another time it was a not so square breech. Allot of different things happen fitting barrels to different era receivers.

It's my opinion, we as handi haulics are FAR more anal and in some cases better about proper fitting barrels then the factory is. At least the factory NOW is.

CW

[Land_Owner]

Got to scope her up first.  Those three empty scope mount holes on the barrel look so bare.  Leupold bases and hammer spurs are on the way.  I have to locate a couple of Redfield Wide View or Revolution 3x7's or x9's in 1" tubes.  Also need one more set of scope mounts.  Fore end screws are also on the way.  Can't forget that.  I have a bipod to mount on the .223 bull barrel too, but will start another thread on that.

[quickdtoo]

Forend screws are available at your local hardware store, standard ¼"-20 x ½" or ¾" depending on the forend and if you use an O-ring or spacer on it. 

Tim